Abstract: This invention is in the field of medical devices. Specifically, the present invention provides fluidic systems having a plurality of reaction sites surrounded by optical barriers to reduce the amount of optical cross-talk between signals detected from various reaction sites. The invention also provides a method of manufacturing fluidic systems and methods of using the systems.

Abstract: According to embodiments, systems and methods for tracking gift card usage improve the speed and efficiency of anomalous transaction detection. Individual transaction data is enriched to form parent records that include indicators that the card is being used outside of established usage criteria or in a way that is otherwise abnormal. Machine learning can improve upon anomalous transactions more quickly using this enriched, parent-level information.

Abstract: According to embodiments, systems and methods for tracking gift card usage improve the speed and efficiency of anomalous transaction detection. Individual transaction data is enriched to form parent records that include indicators that the card is being used outside of established usage criteria or in a way that is otherwise abnormal. Machine learning can improve upon anomalous transactions more quickly using this enriched, parent-level information.

Abstract: A shaft connection assembly for the transfer of torque between two shafts is disclosed. The assembly includes a hub and an elongated annular collar. The hub includes a flange portion and a sleeve portion, the sleeve portion having a plurality of sleeve segments formed by longitudinal cuts along the length of the sleeve portion such that when the collar is forced linearly, axially away from the flange portion, the sleeve segments exert a clamping force on each of two shafts disposed within a passageway formed by the hub. The clamping force prevents relative movement of the first shaft with respect to the second when the shafts are rotated about a common axis. A method for joining two shafts for the transfer of torque using the shaft connection assembly is also disclosed.

Abstract: Indicators that can guide clinical decisions in cancer, particularly posttranslational modification of proteins which result in altered prognosis and differential sensitivity to targeted cancer therapy, are provided. In particular, monitoring of phosphorylation of PTEN may be utilized to predict or assess drug response, drug sensitivity, and clinical outcome. Modulation of PTEN phosphorylation may be utilized to alter sensitivity and outcome in cancer patients. Posttranslational modification of PTEN, particularly phosphorylation, is correlated with resistance to targeted cancer therapy, including EGFR inhibitors, and with reduced survival prognosis. Methods and assays for determining phosphorylation of PTEN, particularly Y240 phosphorylation, are provided. Methods for sensitizing tumors to inhibition and targeted therapy by modulating PTEN phosphorylation are provided.

Abstract: A shaft connection assembly for the transfer of torque between two shafts is disclosed. The assembly includes a hub and an elongated annular collar. The hub includes a flange portion and a sleeve portion, the sleeve portion having a plurality of sleeve segments formed by longitudinal cuts along the length of the sleeve portion such that when the collar is forced linearly, axially away from the flange portion, the sleeve segments exert a clamping force on each of two shafts disposed within a passageway formed by the hub. The clamping force prevents relative movement of the first shaft with respect to the second when the shafts are rotated about a common axis. A method for joining two shafts for the transfer of torque using the shaft connection assembly is also disclosed.